Student Loans for Kiwis – Study in Aus Stress-Free (2026)

Are you a Kiwi dreaming of studying in Australia but worried about how to finance your education? You're not alone. Many New Zealanders aspire to expand their horizons by studying in Australia, but the financial aspect can be daunting. The good news? There are options available to help you manage the costs. Let's dive into how Kiwis can access student loans in Australia.

Understanding Student Loans for Kiwis in Australia

First things first, it's essential to understand the landscape of student loans for New Zealand citizens in Australia. Unlike domestic students, international students typically face higher tuition fees and different financing options. However, thanks to the special relationship between Australia and New Zealand, Kiwis benefit from more favourable conditions than other international students.

Eligibility and Options for Student Loans

As of 2026, New Zealand citizens residing in Australia under a Special Category Visa (SCV) have access to HELP loans, which include HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP, provided they meet certain criteria. Here's what you need to know:

• Eligibility: To qualify for a HELP loan, you must reside in Australia for at least 10 years, starting from when you turned 16, and have been in Australia for at least 18 months out of the last two years.
• HECS-HELP: This is available for students enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place. It covers all or part of your tuition fees.
• FEE-HELP: This assists with tuition fees for full-fee paying students and is available for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
• SA-HELP: A loan to pay for all or part of your student services and amenities fee.

Let's break down the key differences between these loans:

Steps to Access Student Loans in Australia

Acquiring a student loan as a Kiwi in Australia involves several steps. Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Confirm Residency Status: Ensure you meet the residency requirements for a Special Category Visa (SCV).
2. Enrol in an Eligible Course: Choose a course that is approved for HELP loans. You can verify this with the educational institution.
3. Submit a Request Form: Complete a 'Request for Commonwealth support and HECS-HELP' form or a 'Request for FEE-HELP assistance' form, available from your educational provider.
4. Provide Your Tax File Number (TFN): Ensure you have a TFN, as it's required to apply for a HELP loan.
5. Wait for Confirmation: Once your application is processed, you will receive confirmation from your education provider.

Expert Tips and Considerations

Securing a student loan is a significant step towards achieving your educational goals. Here are some expert tips to consider:

• Budget Wisely: While HELP loans cover tuition fees, you will need to budget for living expenses, textbooks, and other costs.
• Understand Repayment: HELP loans are repaid through the Australian tax system once you earn above the repayment threshold, which is $54,869 for the 2026 financial year.
• Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with a mortgage broker like Esteb and Co, who can provide tailored financial advice and access to a network of 83+ lenders.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with any changes in legislation or loan conditions that may impact your eligibility or repayment terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions Kiwis have about accessing student loans in Australia:

1. Can I access a HELP loan if I haven't lived in Australia for 10 years?

   No, you must meet the 10-year residency requirement to access HELP loans.

2. What happens if I move back to New Zealand?

   You will still be required to repay your HELP loan via the Australian tax system if you earn above the repayment threshold.

3. Are there any interest rates on HELP loans?

   HELP loans are indexed annually in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI), so while there is no interest, the debt does increase with inflation.

4. Can I use a HELP loan for postgraduate studies?

   Yes, FEE-HELP loans are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

5. Is there a limit to how much I can borrow?

   Yes, the FEE-HELP limit is $107,000, or $150,000 for courses like medicine and dentistry.

6. Can I get a loan for living expenses?

   No, HELP loans do not cover living expenses. You may need to explore other financial assistance options.

Understanding and navigating the student loan landscape can be challenging, but with the right information and guidance, you can effectively manage your educational finances as a Kiwi in Australia. If you need further assistance, consider reaching out to Esteb and Co for personalised advice and support.